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Epic of Atlantis #1

Echoes of Time: A Science-Fiction Thriller

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Multimillion-copy bestselling authors Douglas E. Richards and Brandon Ellis team up to deliver a gripping science-fiction thriller—one that captures the stunning collision of ancient myth and futuristic technology.

The Hopi share tales of a devastating global flood like those found in cultures across the world. But some also speak of beings from the stars, massive flying objects, and a cataclysmic war between two hyper-advanced civilizations—Atlantis and Lemuria—that triggered this flood.

But what if these stories aren’t just mythology? What if they’re real?

Archeologist Robert Shaw believes they are. When his relentless pursuit of ancient truths leads him to a hidden starship capable of shattering the boundaries of time itself, he’s plunged into a battle for the future of humanity. Because Shaw learns that finding the sentient starship was no accident. It chose him. For a mission that could well decide the fate of worlds.

Now, alongside two unlikely allies also chosen by the ship, Shaw must return to ancient times to stop a war and change history. But when the displaced trio, facing breathtaking technology and unimaginable dangers, can barely survive a single day, how can they alter the course of civilizations? How can they thwart the relentless momentum of fate itself?

Worse, if they fail, the consequences will echo through time, causing an even more devastating cataclysm in the modern era. A cataclysm that could well erase humanity forever . . .

Echoes of Time is a roller-coaster ride of a thriller, packed with fascinating mythology, mind-bending tech, and characters you’ll love to root for. You’ll never look at history the same way again.

482 pages, Paperback

Published November 1, 2025

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About the author

Douglas E. Richards

49 books1,765 followers
Write to Doug at douglaserichards1 at gmail dot com, and visit the author's website to be notified of new releases.

Douglas E. Richards is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of science-fiction thrillers that have sold more than three million copies (see list below). Richards has been celebrated for his gripping, thought-provoking works that blend cutting-edge scientific concepts with heart-pounding narratives.

Richards burst onto the literary scene with his debut novel, WIRED, published in 2010. The novel garnered widespread acclaim for its ingenious combination of scientific speculation and thrilling storytelling. This success set the stage for a series of bestselling novels, each marked by meticulous research, riveting plots, and characters that resonate with readers.

Known for his ability to translate complex scientific concepts into accessible and engaging narratives, Richards has become a go-to author for readers seeking an intellectually stimulating and adrenaline-fueled reading experience. His works delve deeply into the ethical dilemmas posed by scientific breakthroughs and the potential impact of technology on society.

A former Director of Biotechnology Licensing at Bristol Myers Squibb and a former biotechnology executive, Richards earned a BS in microbiology from the Ohio State University, a master's degree in genetic engineering from the University of Wisconsin--where he engineered mutant viruses now named after him--and an MBA from the University of Chicago.

The author has two grown children and lives in San Diego, California, with his wife and dog.

Richards loves hearing from readers, and always replies, so feel free to write to him at douglaserichards1 at gmail dot com, and address him as "Doug". You can also Friend Richards on Facebook at Douglas E. Richards Author, or visit his website, where you can sign up to be notified of new releases.

SCIENCE FICTION THRILLERS BY DOUGLAS E. RICHARDS

SERIES

WIRED (Wired 1)
AMPED (Wired 2)

MIND'S EYE (Nick Hall 1)
BRAINWEB (Nick Hall 2)
MIND WAR (Nick Hall 3)
UNLEASHED (Nick Hall 4)

SPLIT SECOND(Split Second 1)
TIME FRAME (Split Second 2)

THE ENIGMA CUBE (Alien Artifact 1)
A PIVOT IN TIME (Alien Artifact 2)

STANDALONE NOVELS

QUANTUM LENS
GAME CHANGER
INFINITY BORN
SEEKER
VERACITY
ORACLE
THE IMMORTALITY CODE
UNIDENTIFIED
PORTALS
THE CURE (To become KU eligible for the first time in 2023)
THE BREAKTHROUGH EFFECT

Kids Science Fiction Thrillers (9 and up, enjoyed by kids and adults alike)

TRAPPED (Prometheus Project 1)
CAPTURED (Prometheus Project 2)
STRANDED (Prometheus Project 3)

OUT OF THIS WORLD

DEVIL'S SWORD

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5 stars
554 (52%)
4 stars
338 (32%)
3 stars
113 (10%)
2 stars
34 (3%)
1 star
13 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
Profile Image for Petra Lišková.
13 reviews
February 1, 2026
Oh boy. I really struggled to finish this book, but every time I was about to give up, the thought that kept me going was that I would write a review when I finish it. So. Fast-paced? Absolutely not. Drawn out, unnecessary detours, characters behaving like idiots , grown-up men being childish, chaotic writing, obsession with made-up technology described in words the authors obviously don’t understand on 20 pages at a time. This book is actually several movies rolled into one, and not in a good way. No doubt “inspired by” (= stealing from) Star Wars, Back To The Future, Raiders Of The Lost Ark… and many more. I wonder wheter the authors are familiar with an old old book by the Russian author Alexander Kazancev called The Destruction Of The Planet Faena, because the characters from the past in EOT are in many cases copy paste from that book. In short, the premise is interesting, but the execution is enough to get you crying. If you are thinkin about reading this book, don’t.
Profile Image for Maria Fledgling Author  Park.
1,018 reviews54 followers
May 29, 2026
Must Read Science Fiction Thriller

Echoes of Time. Epic of Atlantis by Douglas E. Richards and Brandon Ellis will keep you glued to the page, fascinated and hungry for every next scene. My brother-in-law tries to tell me that good Science Fiction is dead, but authors such as Douglas E. Richards, with his compelling and technically sound science fiction thrillers, and Brandon Ellis, with his imaginative, space-oriented thrillers, prove that great Science Fiction is here to stay.

Dr. Robert Shaw, an Archaeologist with the University of Arizona, has spent most of his career chasing down clues from the Hopi Tribe's stories. Although he's just returned from a risky but successful trip to Brazil with a game-changing artifact, he is still ridiculed at his seminar by fellow Professor, Alan Donovan. He had just finished relating a Hopi story:

“The Hopi believe history moves in cycles. That every age ends because people fail to learn from the mistakes of those before them. If the lessons aren’t heeded, the cycle starts over, often with greater destruction.

Kasskara is what some Hopi oral traditions describe as their ancestral homeland during the third world, before migrating to the Americas at the beginning of the fourth world. According to White Bear, Kasskara would be what some people today call Lemuria. Lemuria is a mysterious lost continent in the Pacific, much like Atlantis is a lost continent in the Atlantic. The legendary Atlantis, the incredible Lemuria, was sunk by a major war.”

Professor Donovan accuses him of using the teaching of Mythology to indoctrinate his students into his “cult” of radical beliefs. Donovan even pulls out an audio recording of a discussion between Robert and Kira Shelton, a business owner and investor friend of his. Donovan accuses him of holding sway over his students and even possibly sleeping with the “co-ed’s.” Robert tells him to get out, finishes his lecture, and goes back to his office.

After the seminar, at his house, he is approached by a young, earnest indigenous man. Robert is appalled that a student found his home address, but, after listening to him, he agrees to hear him out.

“I’m Matt Jones. I was at your lecture today. I know what you’re looking for, Professor Shaw. I’m a member of the Hopi tribe, actually. I grew up on a reservation. I left the Hopi life behind, but I still know things. As to what you’re looking for, you couldn’t have made that more clear during your lecture. You’re looking for a starship. I can help you find it. Like I said, I know things, Professor. Things about the sacred sites, the hidden caves. Information that isn’t in any of your books.”

Professor Shaw is astounded to find out that Matt is the son of Gray Eagle, the revered keeper of sacred Hopi histories and ancient knowledge passed down over generations. Robert had met him on a previous expedition on the Hopi lands of Black Mesa.

Having discussed his research with Matt, Robert agrees to go to the sacred grounds of the Hopi in search of the next artifact he needs. He invites his business friend Kira Shelton, as he has a hunch she needs to be involved. They make plans to meet the next day.

The rest of the novel is part Masterclass on Machiavellian betrayal of an entire race and part selfless and altruistic individual leadership to ensure the continuity of a lifestyle of peace and harmony. What weaves the story together are individual stories of heroism, of downright evil, and the hope of a rightful outcome.

The treachery and blatant perfidiousness of the Atlantean Commander, Kairos Daedalus, will take your breath away, leaving you sputtering for sufficient words to express your anger. On the other hand, as my Dad would say, the eye single to certitude, the credence and certainty with which the Lemurians surge forward is an enormous dose of optimism.

As Thoth, the Hierophant of the Emerald Order says:

“Some Atlanteans are truly evil. So are some Lemurians. But most are not. Where it truly counts, most of the populations of your nations are strikingly the same. With the same hopes, fears, and dreams. The same love for their families and respect for their elders. You’re only enemies at this moment because of the actions of corrupt leadership, using you as pawns in a game of their own making.”

“The darkness cannot comprehend the light, and so light shall always triumph—if you but keep its flame burning in your hearts.”

I couldn't have summed up the horrific conflict better.

Sneak peek at the end and beyond!!! Upon returning to their own time, Robert, Kira, and Matt are not so happy to find out that they have to return to Atlantis and Lemuria. A video hologram from Thoth informs them as to the circumstances. They are told:

“When lessons repeat, they’re worse the second time around to ensure the lesson is plain to see, the learning more apt to be internalized. Sometimes the most effective change comes not from knowing what went wrong, but from having the right people in the right place to make entirely new choices.”

"Share your knowledge freely, but remember always that without spiritual awareness, even the most astonishing technology brings nothing but destruction. This is your sacred duty, to show humanity a better way forward.”

Why did I quote so much of the book? Because of the compelling writing of the authors. I would have loved to include more but then why would you buy the book? :) This is great Science Fiction. Buy this book and find out for yourself. 5 going on 15 stars.
Profile Image for Margaret.
732 reviews21 followers
November 17, 2025
Indiana Jones meets Star Wars plus time travel!

The book is marketed as a "science-fiction thriller". It most definitely is a page-turner and a fast read.

Our hero, like Indy, is an archeologist who teaches as a university professor when he is not out in the field collecting rare artifacts. He also agrees with Indy that his finds belong in museums, not private collections.

Like Luke Skywalker, our archeologist hero is introduced to a powerful weapon controlled by your mind. (Our archeologist gets a crystal mounted on a rod.)

And, truth be told, Star Wars is more science fantasy than science fiction. This book has tech so beyond our 21st Century level that the starship CAN totally repair itself, given enough time. (What good is the best tech imaginable if it can't self-repair?)

Don't just suspend your disbelief. Throw it out hook, line, & sinker and strap in for an excellent ride!

Highly recommended for anyone who loved the Indiana Jones movies / Star Wars movies and anyone who suddenly finds themselves the last hope to save a great long-ago civilization (Can we say Atlantis?)!!
Profile Image for David Blaylock.
1,213 reviews19 followers
March 27, 2026
I can’t remember it ever taking me over two months to read a book. I might DNF the rest of the series.
Profile Image for Carmen.
98 reviews
March 9, 2026
Awesome Time travel sci fi .

A comprehensive literary work with dynamic narrative progression and temporal exploration. I really enjoyed it. Already downloaded the next in the series
Profile Image for Travis.
3,072 reviews52 followers
October 31, 2025
I received a review copy of this book.
Echoes of Time is the first book in this trilogy, and I have to say, I was surprised by it's storyline. I expected the same old time travel story, about someone discovering a doorway/portal/rift/whatever, and being transported back in time where they'd have to deal with current circumstances, whereupon they'd be returned to the present, with no one the wiser.
Well, it was that, but it wasn't. In this case, it's a space ship that carries the main character and others back in time, to the destruction of Atlantis. Their goal is to prevent that destruction.
As the Story proceeds, we find that Atlantis itself is the cause of these troubling issues that need to be stopped. This is quite the departure from most time travel books of this kind, since usually it's an outside influence trying to do things for their own reasons. I like this shift in perspective. Since there's more books in the series, I don't think it's a spoiler to say that by the end of the book, the characters succeed in stopping the events they were sent back to stop, only upon returning to their own time, they find nothing different from when they left. Timeline shift? Coincidence? Failed mission after all?
The answers come in the form of a message from one of the characters introduced after they went back, and what it tells them is disheartening for the crew, but leaves them no less determined to carry out their new assignment. I like the story, and although I didn't expect some of the events that took place in this one, (something I enjoy, because often times, predicting the story is trivially easy), The story didn't really lag anywhere, which is certainly a plus, and I'm interested in reading the next one in the series when it is released.
273 reviews1 follower
October 27, 2025
I absolutely loved this book.  The type of sci-fi not usually done by Brandon Ellis and the co-ordination with Douglas Richards has paid off big time as far as I can tell.  Dr Robert Shaw is constantly being interrupted in his classes by his nemesis, Alan Donovan, another professor, who is so closed off to how the Hopi had lived.  Robert still holds firmly to his beliefs.  But Kira Shelton and Matt "Little Owl" Jones had an opportunity to sneak onto Hopi sacred land with Matt as the guide to find proof of Robert's beliefs.  In their quest they find a spacecraft that takes them to the past to Atlantis and Lemuria.  But not all is as it seems, or that they would like it to be seen.  They try to help the Lemurians to maintain the peace, while the Atlanteans have a despot of a Councilor who wants to rule the world and make his own changes.  We get to see a wonderful interaction between our time-travelling trio and the locals.  I couldn't tell you more, but read this story and prepare to be thoroughly enthralled by all that happens.  I can't wait to see what happens next.  Thank you, Brandon Ellis and Douglas Richards, for this fantastic book.  I always love a book as interesting as this.  Until next time, guys.
2 reviews
June 1, 2026
Let me start by saying that I have read all of Douglas Richard’s books. Until now and with the possible exception of Veracity, I have throughly enjoyed each and every one of them.

This book is utterly terrible. I never give up on books but this novel really put that to the test. First off it is way too long, pointlessly long in fact or maybe it just felt that way. I’m at a loss to understand how this was released. It doesn’t feel like the finished article, more a second draft with nothing cut yet. The story meanders, the characters are paper thin, the plot moves around like an out of control hose yet has zero focus. The action is confusing at best but without any sense of jeopardy. You just don’t care what happens as long as you get a page or two closer to the end.

I don’t understand the lack of editorial control that allows such a poor quality book to make it to the shelves.

Don’t waste your time with this book. Douglas has much, much better stories waiting to entertain you.
2,612 reviews6 followers
November 5, 2025
ECHOES OF TIME is a great story! It’s full of fascinating and imaginative descriptions of Atlantis, Lemuria, and all points between. Robert, Matt, Kira and others are characters you quickly come to know and love. They have realistic dialogue and interaction with plenty of exciting adventure.
The only criticism I can offer is that between the 20% and 35% marks, I felt the story moved a bit too slowly. The section contains lots of wonderful descriptive content but not enough moving of the story forward.
Don’t give up, though; the story just keeps getting better!
By the way, this is a BIG book so don’t expect to fly through it in one day.
I reviewed a free Advance Reader Copy of this book with no strings attached.
Profile Image for John.
34 reviews
December 14, 2025
Hail Atlantis

If you've ever suspected there might be more going on than meets the eye this might be for you. It's an epic adventure which involves Hopi wisdom and substance to the potential reality of Atlantis. It has some interesting depths of philosophical analysis of the rise and fall of humanity in this world. And, some swashbuckling adventure to save the world. I thoroughly enjoyed it and consumed the book in 4 days of slow vacation. Other than the odd moment where things get laid out in an overly simplified manner or a little too sickly sweet I enjoyed it. Douglas Richards prolific production has been yet another great read, of course this time with the help of Brandon Ellis.
40 reviews
November 20, 2025
Another great book from Doug Richards

I am probably not the "normal" reader of Doug's in that ordinarily I don't like sci-fi books. But I did use to read an occasional Michael Crichton book and when I once read an ad that said Richards was the new Crichton I gave him a chance and have loved every one of Doug's books! In addition to not normally reading science , I don't believe any of this stuff as I am a bible believing evangelical Christian, but he makes it.so fun and enjoyable that I can't help myself. This book about going back in time to save Atlantis is a hoot. Lots of action and humor.
2 reviews
January 8, 2026
Great read if you love action based sci fi!

This book was masterfully written and definitely drives the imagination. I enjoyed the beginning of the book and the ending the most. The middle was a bit too much war and fighting for my taste which isn't really my thing, so it seemed like it dragged on a bit in some of those scenes. However, if you love action movies, like my husband does (he plans to read this next), you'll likely really enjoy it!

I love science fiction but I'm more into dramas and mysteries than action. But this book really did get me thinking and I loved the excerpt at the end explaining what drove the authors to write it.
487 reviews8 followers
November 1, 2025
A really good on the edge of your seat, roller coaster ride of thrills. Very good storyline, good strong characters .Keeps you reading wanting more until the end when you find there's another book then another, hopefully with the same appeal. I enjoyed this one and will certainly be waiting for the next two to be released because I shall be reading them, needless to say I recommend it very highly and enjoyed it greatly ,so should you if this genre is to your taste , buy and enjoy . Good reading. '
Profile Image for Dustin Etheridge.
3 reviews2 followers
May 22, 2026
So this mfer is supposed to be a nonoperator, but he takes on military tactics and leadership while there are trained professionals there? Oh and he is in a place in time he knows nothing about how they fight. Then he finds time to discuss his love to someone who he isn’t romantic with yet? But at the same time he has brand new responsibilities he is the only one in the world who can do in his Jedi powers. All at the same time there is an existential crisis about to happen? Did I overlook something that makes this not be terrible writing?
Profile Image for Douglas Richards.
Author 49 books1,765 followers
November 1, 2025
Hi, this is just my way of reaching my followers (I think) to alert them that my new novel, Echoes of Time, written with fellow bestselling author Brandon Ellis is now available on Amazon as an eBook, KU download, or paperback. Here is the tagline for this one. I hope you'll give it a try. I think you'll really enjoy it. Thanks! Doug

A sentient starship. Mind-blowing tech. Ancient myths revealed as truth. A thrill ride you won't forget.
6 reviews
November 16, 2025
An intriguing premises brilliantly executed

I read this book as part of pre-read process from the author. It starts like an Indiana Jones book and then uses the premise of myth and legend to morph into a Science Fiction story (or is it myth) that focuses on how history might be if we knew more. It moves at throughout and sketches out the story and characters well. I look forward to the next book and will download as soon as it is available.
30 reviews
January 21, 2026
Lost Time...Sleep Time That Is!

Several nights I was so engrossed reading this book I lost track of time and ended up a zombie impersonator the next day at work lol. Can't wait to read the next in the series, as a matter of fact I will start it as soon as I finish this review. If you want a really good time read this book! Go, download it this minute time is of the essence you never know when the world might end...just kidding...maybe.
80 reviews2 followers
February 8, 2026
THIS IS A VERY INTERESTING BOOK. IN THIS A EXPERT, A STUDENT AND A COLLEAGUE FIND A SPACESHIP FROM BEFORE ANCIENT TIMES AND THEY EMBARK ON A JOURNEY THAT WILL CHANGE THEIR LIVES FOREVER. THEY LAND IN ATLANTIS OF THE PAST WHERE THERE IS A GREAT BATTLE IS GOING ON BETWEEN TWO SUPER NATIONS. THEY HAVE TO SAVE THE WORLD FROM NOT ONLY THEM BUT ALSO A RACE CALLED DRACONIANS WHO WORK IN THE SHADOWS. CAN THEY WORK ALONGSIDE LEMURIA AND SAVE THE PLANET FROM MASS DESTRUCTION.
Profile Image for Deborah Zaranti.
22 reviews
November 25, 2025
I've always been curious and interested in learning more about Atlantis and Lemuria. This story is great! I cannot wait for the second and third books to come out! So many interesting elements in this story. A sentient spaceship, time travel, love story between the hero and heroine. So many new and creative ideas in the story.
35 reviews1 follower
December 20, 2025
Riveting story

This book was very entertaining and an imaginative scify story. The story came alive with its detailed description of the past. I enjoyed time travel touching on the ancient myths and painting a great picture of those mysterious locations. Highly recommend reading this story.
1 review
February 2, 2026
WHAT IF?

what if these advanced ancient civilizations had survived and thrived to our current time. What would life on earth and mankind be like. How far would we have evolved and traveled to the stars. Those are answers I hope to discover in the next 2 installments. Great collaboration.
23 reviews
April 22, 2026
Great read! Fun characters with depth. Interesting take on both the present and past.

Really deeply enjoyed this book.

Characters were fun with depth.

Kept me engaged and made me really connect with the underlying themes of connectivity to nature, humanity, and spirituality. (Not remotely religious book so don’t freak). Excited for the next book!
60 reviews
May 8, 2026
Atlantis was real and here are the receipts

Well researched and thrilling time travel adventure by 2 of my favorite authors. Weaving Hopi legends and historical theories together with non stop action and multiple plot twists for one of the best books I have read, you will not be disappointed
500 reviews5 followers
November 10, 2025
Legends
WOW! What an amazing mission the wonderful main characters go on. Great description bring this fast paced adventure to life. Twist and turns will keep you on the edge of your seat as you live through legends come to life. Great job Brandon Ellis. An honest review from reading the ARC.
9 reviews
December 11, 2025
Great collaboration

Really enjoyed reading this book. I've read many collaborative works but they tend to read like 2 books. Enjoyed the smooth transitions (were there any?)
The link between the Hopi and a highly intelligent civilization was really great!
356 reviews3 followers
December 20, 2025
A mix of technology and time travel into a fairytale.

Magic flute that starts and ancient spacecraft to saving Atlantis from destruction, our present day trio save the past and present. Wizards and aliens help and hurt their efforts. What next?
Profile Image for Troy A. Wilson, Sr..
25 reviews1 follower
December 29, 2025
A good story, but the writing needs more depth

I am enjoying the story and will read more of the series, but the writing is very simplistic. I’m hoping that as the author gains more experience the writing will also improve. I look forward to reading more.
Profile Image for Alex.
Author 3 books13 followers
January 26, 2026
What a fun and informative read!

Love everything written by Doug and Brandon, and this book as my favorite so far. Great pace and characterization, and amazing historical research entertwined with a very entertaining story.
315 reviews3 followers
February 9, 2026
Glorious Adventure

This story is so much fun as well as mind-stretching. What a seductive trip into time travel to an advanced civilization. I am irresistibly drawn to the next book and the rest of the adventure.
2 reviews
March 20, 2026
Great read

I finished reading this book in two days - my apologies to the authors who undoubtedly spent a great deal more time writing it. I would love to see this made into a movie with a sequel or two.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews